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Two words: cheese curds. There’s a reason Wisconsin is known as the cheese state. But that isn’t the only reason people should consider Wisconsin as a top option for relocation. With more than 15,000 lakes and rich history, this state ensures that there is always something to do. For our investors out there, Wisconsin has a very low cost of living, yet the population is on the rise, which means a consistent stream of renters for you.
Laws that impact the rental market, landlords, and tenants are constantly being decided in states. Make sure you know what’s on your ballot – find Wisconsin voting information here.
When it comes to Wisconsin rental laws, there are a few specifics landlords need to know:
Application Fees
Wisconsin landlords can’t charge more than $20 for application fees.
Criminal Background Check
Landlords can check the criminal backgrounds of applicants, but those in Madison should review City Ordinance 3.23 to ensure legal compliance.
Disclosures
A tenant is advised that this notice is only a summary of the tenant’s rights and the specific language of the statutes governs in all instances.
Protected Classes
Security Deposits
Itemization for any lawful deductions must be mailed to the tenant’s forwarding address.
Late Fees
Wisconsin landlords can charge $20 or 20% of the monthly rent, whichever is greater, after the fifth day of rent nonpayment. However, you can charge a higher late fee if you can prove it’s “reasonable.”
Wisconsin Lease Agreement
There are three sections to a residential lease agreement. The first section outlines the custom details of the contract, such as who’s involved and for what address. Here’s an example Wisconsin lease agreement listing details found in Section 1:
Below are answers to some of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to landlord-tenant laws in Wisconsin:
The only case in which a tenant may withhold rent in Wisconsin is if the landlord fails to make repairs in a reasonable amount of time.
Evicting a tenant in Wisconsin typically takes anywhere from two to four months, depending on the reason for eviction.
Wisconsin is considered a fairly landlord-friendly state because of the lack of rent control laws and how security deposits are handled.
There are four reasons a landlord may file for eviction in Wisconsin. The four reasons include failure to pay rent, violation of the lease agreement, imminent harm to others, and illegal activity. Depending on the violation, the landlord must give the tenant notice and anywhere from five to 30 days to cure their violation.
If the tenant fails to cure or move out, then the landlord may file a complaint with the court, which costs $94.50 – $114.50. After the complaint is filed, it will be served to the tenant at least five days before the hearing. The hearing will be held no longer than 25 days after the complaint was filed with the court.
If the court rules in favor of the landlord, then a writ of restitution will be issued immediately. Once the tenant has been served the writ of restitution, they will have ten days to move out.
Landlords must give tenants a 28-day notice before requiring a month-to-month tenant to move out. For a week-to-week lease, no notice is required.
TurboTenant has utilized many municipal sources and official state statutes to compile this information to the best of our ability. However, local laws are constantly in flux, and landlords and tenants alike should do their due diligence and consult legal help when it’s needed. We hope the following list can serve as a valuable resource and allow you to succeed as a landlord or tenant in Wisconsin. Be sure to take proper precautions when it comes to finding the top candidates for your unit by utilizing our online rental application and tenant screening services.
Disclaimer: TurboTenant, Inc does not provide legal advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. All users are advised to check all applicable local, state, and federal laws and consult legal counsel should questions arise.
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